Showing posts with label barcelona. Show all posts
Showing posts with label barcelona. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

oh and by the by

Friends of ours are in Barcelona right now. They are going to love it!!! And I'm not going to lie, I am just a smidge or two jealous. 

(Forgive the small pics - I don't have my original photos with me . . . I think you get the idea though . . . )


 

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Day 8 - Bidding Farewell to Barcelona

After the late night before the morning was slow in coming. But once we got it underway there was no stopping us.

It was our last day here and we still had a couple things to cross off the list. Spurred on with energy from the delightful fruit we headed off to Park Guell. We had decided to take a taxi from our hotel and very glad we did. It was quite the hike.

On the way we pondered what a Spanish family would do on a Sunday since stores and many restaurants are closed. When we arrived at the park we knew. The park was teeming with people.

It certainly is an incredible place. Gaudi's architecture speaks of his delightful imagination as the abstract shapes and curves were beautiful. He uses a lot of glass mosaics to cap his towers and create interest in his spaces. But you couldn't find a spot to sit and enjoy or take a photo. Soon we were on our way.

We were walking towards the Gracia district when we felt the first rain drop. Oh dear. But since we were in search of lunch we were sure to get out of the open air before the sky opened up on us. Many many many blocks later and many many rain drops later we found our way to a small bakery for a croissant and cappuccino. Lol. But I will not complain as they sure do make a great cappuccino here.

I don't know why but we seem to be picky when it comes to food and their typical tapes cafeteria shows pictures with a fried egg on the side of any dish and as such our rule has become if their menu is posted at the door with pictures to keep walking. And walk we did. Finally stopping for a meal when we reached the waterfront 2.5 hours later. As Jimmy noted though, thank goodness it was all down hill. And as always, we discovered many new sights along the way. Including a beautiful 'football' stadium with a match underway.

After our lunch the sun was shining brightly so we headed down to the beach to catch some sun sand and surf. Despite the constant pleas we declined all massage offers but did give into the gentleman with the green bags selling coca cola, cervesa or agua. What an interesting home business that would be. Tough sale today though as the beach didn't have nearly as many people as Friday.

With the sun starting to dip down we headed to the pier for some gelato and a stroll around the marina. Some of the yachts are incredible. Hot tubs. Water toys. Big sun decks. That is a life I would like to try for a few months!! Anyone care to fly into Barcelona to join us on the Mediterranean for a week or two?

P.s. I spotted a riders jersey today in our travels. We truly do bleed green wherever we go. And on that note Jimmy did mention that Barcelona must have him really charmed. Today is the first Sunday of the American football season and it didn't even cross his mind until he spotted the Minnesota Cleveland game at the shisha lounge we stopped at. And worthy to note one of the few places we have found with any big screens.

And to our great fortune the following game was Redskins verses the Giants so of course we had to stay. This meant I had plenty of time to shop for and write up the family postcards. With Jimmy's help of course.

It is now way past our bedtime so I shall sign off. Tomorrow we will be hailing from Palma!!!

Day 7 - Discovering Gothic Quarter

The morning dawned on another gorgeous day. Now that we were on our own we wanted to explore some of the areas we had seen from the bus but didn't have time for before.

Our first stop was the market right by our hotel. From the bus I had noticed the cutest little cafe that was promising crepes. First problem, to find the cafe again. Second problem ordering crepes in spanish. Unfortunatley they didn't have any bananas nor nutella and the four cheese quickly became two cheese. But alas all was not lost as we made our way through a bunch of market kiosks purchasing gifts for others.

We wandered through the fresh food section to stall upon stall of fresh fish, nuts and spices, meats and cheese, beef lamb pork and a mystery animal with beady eyes and a small tuft of white fur staring at me, chicken, fruits and veggies, pastries and bread and one lone bar/cappuccino stall. Funny that this stall was the busiest of all. Did I mention it was 11 am!!!

From there we wandered along the shops. Barcelona has more shopping options than any city I have ever been in. Soon we tired of shopping so stopped at a fresh market to buy some peaches. I am not going to lie. These were the best peaches we have ever tasted. Yummy!!! So good in fact that as soon as we were finished we went looking for more. Why oh why did we not discover these markets sooner.

Since we were carrying our wares and peaches, a stop back at the hotel was in order. By the time we arrived we were hot and sweaty and ready for a dip so off to the pool we went. What a refreshing afternoon stop.

Next it was off to our favorite part of the city... The Gothic quarter. I don't know why I love this area so much. Perhaps some of the same reasons many others do: the narrow streets that zigzag through the city, the mixture of restaurants, high end shopping, souvenir stores and random discount shops or the fact that there is a surprise waiting for you around the most random corners-like a stunning building you had no idea was there or a little courtyard filled with chairs and umbrellas or the most delightful smells from a homemade waffle shop. Or maybe it's because there are so many streets, restaurants and shops that a few thousand people doesn't feel like the same crowd you would have elsewhere and maybe it's because the locals are more likely to be in this area dragging their shopping bags along filled with bread and fruits. Maybe it's because every last detail on the building is thought out, carefully built and stood the test of time. More beautiful now than it was centuries ago as time has added it's stories both of celebration and sadness to these very places. Needless to say... I absolutely adore it.

We wandered through the streets stumbling upon the most famous and awesome concert hall in the world which has stood for over 100 years. We followed the twists of the street to the Arc de Triomf. We strolled down the walkway stopping to enjoy the many iron gargoyles along the way. We ducked into the narrow streets and came upon a little shop to pick up a Barcelona football jersey. We continued to make random turns through streets when we came upon an open court with so many delightful smells escaping the 5 restaurant kitchens we couldn't help but stop for dinner. We meandered through the cobblestone when we looked up to see an awesome church spire. By following that spire we found another beautiful and incredibly large church that was hidden from view 5 minutes ago. And there we found some beautiful jewelry where I bought myself the most adorable ring. The streets led us through more twists and turns, passed another church, down to the water and back into a beautiful circular courtyard. We sat for a while soaking it all in.

Before long the cobblestones were dancing beneath our feet again taking us to his large open plaza where people dined, sipped cappuccino, found a space to sit and read, crouched into the most awkward of positions to get that one awesome shot. We continued through to our next adventure which found us along the old shipping district by the water. There we stopped for dessert and cappuccino ourselves. But alas our adventure was not over. We ducked across the bridge to stroll the water front before again losing ourselves in the maze. We spent almost 40 minutes trying to retrace our steps back to a little shop we had seen earlier. We finally settled on one like it before we headed to find a taxi.

Along the walk out we did find that first shop we were looking for. We also experienced the Gothic quarter as they shut the lights off. Those dark alleys didn't seem as playful and adventurous as they had earlier. But I still loved every minute of it. And in case I haven't given you enough reasons yet: I like it because over the course of the 7 hours we were there we never ran into the same person nor did we ever stumble upon the same plaza that the taxi originally dropped us off in.

By now it was late, our feet were tired and we were ready to dream about all of our adventures.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Day 6 - On the Streets of Barcelona

With our bellies full of another delightful breakfast buffet we were off. This time we wandered down to catch the red route at a little shopping plaza not far from the hotel. And were we ever glad we caught it there!! By the time we reached Placa de la Catalunya (starting spot of the world renowned La Rambla) the bus line ups were crazy long. This route took us to the northern part of the city where we saw Barcelona's incredible football stadium, large estate homes, beautiful Gothic monastery and some of Gaudi's famous work.

Going by the Temple de la Sagrada Familia it was amazing to compare it to the cathedral from the day before. After many years of construction it still wasn't even close to being completed. And I don't know if I can really say this as I don't know Gaudi's intent but the building seemed to be more about leaving his legacy rather than a tribute to an awesome God. Once we post pics upon our return, you can make your own conclusion!!

We listened to the full route before getting off at La Rambla and touring that strip. The amount of people was amazing. It was like the red mile all over again. And of course with the crowds comes performers, markets, little food stands etc. Even Burger King and McDonald's had a strip front presence.

La Rambla takes you down to the port where we were able to check out a cute little port side residential area in search of a spot for lunch. The cool thing about Barcelona is that in every little area you find tapas bars, convenience stores, markets, fresh fruits and veggies, butchers, and restaurants scattered along all of the streets with residential flats above. And of course many lines of laundry being hung to dry.

Our next plan of attack was the green route through the more modern areas before finding ourselves back on the beach front. What a contrast in architecture there was in that area of the city With a quick change and light snack Jimmy dived into the gorgeous Mediterranean sea while I slept on the beach in the beautiful sun. The water was a gorgeous aqua and clear and the beach was certainly crowded. Apparently we stumbled upon a national holiday to celebrate the Catalan heritage so things were certainly closed in the non-touristy areas and busy along the waterfront.

Another refreshment stop and we were on our way to ride the red route one more time at dusk and head back to our hotel. After two late nights and long days in the sun and walking we were due for an earlieri'sh night.

Another successful day in the beautiful city.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Day 5 - A little Hop on and Off in Barcelona

This day proved to be even better than I imagined. After a bit of a sleep in we decided to grab breakfast at the hotel first. Potato tostados, sausages, eggs, yogurt, fruit, meats, cheeses, pastries and of course endless amounts of coffee. It was just the kick we needed to get the day going.

And in case I haven't stressed enough how fantastic our hotel is... Let me reiterate that it's in a fantastic location. Not only is it across the street from the train station but it is also right by one of the hop on hop off stops. Needless to say that is directly where we headed!!!

I am glad that I convinced Jimmy (not that it took much) that these are the best way to navigate around and learn all about the city you are exploring. As always we were not disappointed.

Today we explored the blue route which took us up Olympic hill down along the port past the beach and into Gothic quarter. This where we took our first leave.

Not going to lie, did a small happy dance when we were off the bus. It is even better than I imagined. The quaint little winding streets, shopping, markets and faint hint of sea air. After snapping some pics in the open area we wound our way down the streets. Of course I couldn't pass by the gelato (apparently strangers were laughing at me as I snapped the gelato fashion shoot) and slowly wandered on our way window shopping as we went.

All too soon, the store owners started to shut down for their afternoon siesta so we decided a little lunch was in order. We found the most adorable little foccacia shop and enjoyed our little snack.

Since we were right by the cathedral and everyone was still siesta'ing it was our next stop. A beautiful work of art by Gaudi; every book said it was sure to please. So after paying our admission and buying a piece of fabric to cover my shoulders out of respect (what a delight that the cathedral is so sacred they still maintain a dress code) we quickly came upon some of the most awesome sites we had ever seen.

To this day I will not understand how architects in the middle and early centuries could design and carefully supervise the creation of such stunning buildings. We wandered around in complete awe. I must admit, when entering these buildings I always find myself with a lump in my throat. The awe and beauty they wanted to bestow on their faith...How did we become so complacent and simplistic in ours.

Just as we were finishing in the cathedral my battery light came on the camera. I suppose taking 100+ pictures in a few hours will do that. However this meant a stop back at the hotel. Perfect timing really since we were hot and sweaty, ready for a little more bus learning and wistfully thinking about the pool.

A little dip and a quick poolside nap gave us the energy we needed to head back to the bus so we could stop at some of the earlier sights. With pictures of the Barcelona sky line, sunsets and the port we were ready to hit up La Rambla for a delicious meal and a quick stroll.

All too soon the day was over and slumber was calling our name.

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Day 4 - Ola!!!

After leaving London and the fabulous fashion behind (p.s. Jimmy is adding to his skinny jeans and one lens sunglasses a deep tight v-neck shirt that highlights his strong collar bone and frolicking chest hair) we were off to Barcelona. Fortunately enough the flight was uneventful!!!

Upon arriving, we managed to figure out the train route and after a walk the long way around the block find our hotel. And what a delightful hotel it turned out to be. Fantastic rooms. Roof top pool with lounge chairs. Terrace sip n chill. Very helpful staff.

By this point we were nearly starving and so headed off to grab some lunch at a little spot across the street. The dear folk back in Nova Scotia are going to be amazed at the Norwegian lobster that topped the risotto. And after the salad incident I couldn't wait to eat more than a leaf of lettuce. So yummy after the morning of travel.

With the early start, warm sun and yummy food, the pool was begging us to come and lounge before heading out on the town for sites and dinner!! So that is exactly what we did.

Throughout the day it was quickly discovered that I am not the best navigator if I'm hungry. Somehow after pondering over the map for half an hour, I led us 90 degrees in the wrong direction for 20 minutes. Lol...oops. I deserved to have been stripped of my girl guide navigation badge for that one!!! (but really it was all a ploy to pass the map duties on so I can spend more time gazing about and picking out Spanish men to bring home for Brenda and Nicole!!! That's a hard enough job...)

And this leads me to our favorite part of the day... Dining at 9 pm on a fantastic little patio on tapas. And we ordered it without a stitch of English on the menu. It was also amazing to see the flurry of activity and relaxed gatherings as we were the not the first to leave our table even though it was 12:45. I can't imagine hooking up with friends at 11:30 on a Wednesday eve but it somehow works here. Seriously in love with Barcelona.

So good night all. We are off to enjoy a pink panther. Too excited to discover more tomorrow.

Thursday, August 06, 2009

Less than a month away





















Well as I sit here frantically thinking about all I have to do before I embark on my vacation season, I wanted to share with you the exciting places I will soon be seeing:

First stop - London!! I loved London when I was there a couple of years ago. I loved the people, the beautiful architecture, the window shopping and the fabulous Indian food!! I cannot wait to experience all of that again.

This time around we have added the London eye, Camden market and the Tower of London!! Oooh - I could squeal right now!




One thing that I will not be partaking in again . . . White Pepper (in case anyone was wondering)


































Next on the Agenda - fabulous Barcelona. After watching Viky Christina Barcelona I was so excited to visit. Then when Jillian Harris visted there with all her boys, I knew it was fate.

Check out the movie trailer if you have never seen it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwT2fPy7nsY

It looks like the hotel is going to be amazing:
http://www.expohotelbarcelona.com/en/

And finally some photos of sites we will be seeing!













And then . . . before we head back to London for the weekend, we wanted to have a little beach time. So why not Mallorca! The island looks absolutely amazing . . .








And in case you were wondering about the beaches . . . check out our little hotel:

http://www.barcelo-albatros.com/